Olympic hopeful supports community sports event

ONE of Britain’s young Olympic hopefuls is helping to organise a community games event in Stafford.

Sprinter Abbi Tyson, 22, is in the 100m trials for the London 2012 games and is teaming up with Stafford and Rural Homes (SARH) to organise the Meadow Games, in Penkside, on August 4.

The event will take place on Meadow Road and include a variety of activities such as dance, arts and crafts, a mobile skate park and taster sessions from local sports clubs.

“These games are inspired by the London 2012 Olympics and our aim is to get out and engage with the local community to promote health and wellbeing,” said Abbi, a health support officer for Stafford Borough Council.

Abbi, who grew up in Stafford, runs for Birchfield Harriers and has qualified for the trials for London, took on her role with the council to help spread the message about keeping fit and healthy and hopes her efforts will inspire others.

The Meadow Games will be another opportunity to pass on that message and also give local residents the chance to take part in a consultation on how the area can be developed for all members of the community to enjoy.

SARH and Stafford Borough Council have provided funding for a mobile skate park, zumba equipment and marquees at the event.

“The Games will be aimed at all ages and sporting abilities,” said Pam Smith, Customer Participation Officer for SARH. “The Penkside Community Champions Network, supported by partner organisations including SARH and Stafford Borough Council, will lead on this activity and hope to encourage more people to take an active role in forthcoming community projects.”

Sport Across Staffordshire and Stoke on Trent together with south Staffordshire PCT have also provided funding as part of a commitment to supporting 12 community-focused events up to 2014.

For more information about the event please call SARH’s customer participation team on 0800 111 4554 or email cp@sarhomes.staging.wpengine.com. Or Abbi Tyson at Stafford Borough Council on 01785 619392 or email atyson@staffordbc.gov.uk